Research on vaccines and immunization. Covers COVID and flu vaccines, outbreak response, long-lasting antibodies, and vaccination in vulnerable groups.
A survey study examines US adults' beliefs on who should be prioritized for access to COVID-19 vaccines. The study found that some groups, including young children and individuals with underlying health conditions, are more likely to be prioritized over others.
Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a disruption in the brain's normal mechanisms for controlling the body and can be triggered by physical or emotional events, including vaccinations. Individuals with FND may experience symptoms such as limb weakness, gait problems, jerky movements, tremor and facial spasms.
A recent study examines potential associations between COVID-19 vaccinations and functional neurological disorder, a condition characterized by symptoms similar to those experienced during a neurologic event. The researchers aim to better understand the relationships between vaccination and neurological side effects.
A new study from Aarhus University found that 89% of Danes are willing to be vaccinated against COVID-19, unchanged after the AstraZeneca vaccine was paused due to rare blood clots. The low level of confidence in the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine is an important signal to health authorities.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center shares five key lessons on health equity from its COVID-19 vaccination campaign, including obtaining reliable patient data and addressing structural inequalities. The health system's approach aims to reach marginalized communities with trust-building strategies.
A USC study found Hispanic immigrants aged 20-54 are 11 times more likely to die from COVID-19 compared to U.S.-born non-Hispanic individuals. Younger populations, particularly those of Asian/Pacific Islander and Black descent, also face higher mortality rates.
The NIH is conducting a clinical trial to assess the risk of systemic allergic reactions to the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines in people with mast cell disorders or severe allergies. The study aims to identify potential genetic patterns that may predict who is at most risk for these reactions.
A new report confirms polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a cause of anaphylaxis following COVID-19 vaccination. The authors note that PEG allergy is rare and that COVID-19 vaccines remain safe despite the risk.
Patients with kidney failure undergoing hemodialysis developed a positive antibody response after COVID-19 vaccination, but at lower levels than healthy individuals. The findings highlight the need to reconsider vaccination schedules for this patient group.
A new model has been developed to estimate the risk of SARS-CoV-2-related death among patients in the Veterans Affairs health care system, enabling healthcare professionals to prioritize vaccination strategies.
A recent study found that a higher percentage of people in Appalachia are unlikely to receive the COVID-19 vaccine compared to national numbers. The researchers also tested interventions to stop the spread of misinformation, finding that subtle warnings from trusted health influencers can make a difference.
Case report describes two patients who underwent a successful second dose of the Moderna vaccine using a graded dosing protocol after experiencing immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Both patients responded well and developed IgG antibodies, suggesting effective vaccination despite the modified dosing schedule.
A UConn researcher has developed a successful Zika vaccine in preclinical studies using a novel platform technology. The vaccine, based on a viral vector and enhanced expression of the virus antigen, was found to mount a strong immune response and protect against Zika virus infection.
A study by Cedars-Sinai researchers found that individuals with prior COVID-19 infections who received a single dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine developed an antibody response similar to those without prior infection. The findings suggest that a single booster dose may be sufficient for previously infected individuals.
The NIH has started a Phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of Moderna's COVID-19 variant vaccine, mRNA-1273.351, designed to protect against the B.1.351 SARS-CoV-2 variant. The trial enrolls approximately 210 healthy adult volunteers and aims to assess the reactogenicity and immune response of the vaccine.
Researchers developed a tamper-proof temperature indicator to monitor mRNA vaccine storage conditions. The system can alert healthcare workers when the vaccine reaches an unsafe temperature for a certain period, ensuring effective distribution and use of the vaccine.
A study in the San Francisco Bay area found that COVID-19 vaccine uptake differed significantly across racial and ethnic groups. Among health workers, vaccination rates were highest among white healthcare providers and lowest among Asian-American healthcare workers.
A new mathematical model suggests that easing lockdown must be accompanied by wider and more effective use of control measures like facemasks to suppress COVID-19. The model shows that non-spatial control measures can limit virus particle spread between people.
Researchers found that CD8+ T cells in recovered COVID-19 patients can recognize virtually all mutations in recent SARS-CoV-2 variants, offering protection against emerging strains. This suggests that vaccination may still be effective against new variants, and booster vaccinations may be needed to maintain immunity.
The UCLA-led PREVENT project will enroll 10,000 health care personnel at 16 medical centers to study the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines among vaccinated and non-vaccinated workers. The results will help determine how effective vaccines are at preventing infection.
Researchers found a correlation between Henry Ford's universal mask policy and a significant drop in the rate of healthcare workers testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. The study suggests that mask-wearing is effective in reducing the risk of acquiring COVID-19, supporting the institution's decision to implement the policy.
A large study found that COVID vaccines produce high levels of antibodies in pregnant women, which can be passed to newborns through breastmilk and the placenta. The study also showed that lactating women receive a similar immune response, providing benefits for both mothers and infants.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has found that COVID-19 vaccines may not produce sufficient antibody response in people who have received solid organ transplants and are immunocompromised. Only 17% of participants developed detectable antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving their first dose of the vaccine.
A recent study found that about half of Americans intend to get vaccinated as soon as possible, while others are hesitant or unlikely to get vaccinated. The survey highlights the need for targeted outreach to address vaccine hesitancy and build trust with communities, particularly among African American and Hispanic respondents.
A study by the University of Birmingham suggests that prioritizing COVID-19 vaccination for surgical patients can prevent thousands of post-operative deaths. Vaccination is estimated to reduce COVID-19-related deaths among high-risk patients, such as those undergoing cancer surgery.
A study by researchers at the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that news coverage of expert scientific evidence on vaccine safety increases public acceptance of vaccines. In contrast, personal narratives about real side effects diminish the positive effect of such messages. The experiment tested six video clips featuring experts an...
A survey of Geisinger employees showed increasing acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines after vaccine availability announcements, public events, and news coverage. 55.3% of employees indicated they intended to receive a vaccine, with most citing safety concerns as the main reason for hesitation.
A study by McGill University researchers found that delaying second COVID-19 vaccine doses can have benefits, but effects depend on population immunity. Increasing vaccination rates or changing dosing regimes can mitigate longer-term epidemiological effects.
A recent study of vaccinated healthcare workers found a low overall positivity rate among fully immunized individuals, supporting high protection rates of COVID-19 vaccines. However, the authors noted an elevated risk of infection after vaccination, possibly due to differences in demographics and behaviors.
A survey of healthcare workers in a health system assessed their intentions to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and explored reasons for hesitancy. The study found that many workers were hesitant due to concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy, as well as perceived risks to vulnerable populations.
Vaccinating healthcare workers reduced positive COVID-19 cases by over 90%, with infection rates lowest among fully vaccinated employees, according to data from UT Southwestern Medical Center. The institution saw a significant reduction in required isolations and quarantines.
A partnership between Loma Linda University and local churches has successfully vaccinated over 400 people in the predominantly Black community of San Bernardino County. The initiative, which included mobile vaccine clinics in church parking lots, resulted in an increase of 3.6% in Black attendance at mass vaccination clinics.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University found the Pfizer vaccine to be moderately less effective against the South African variant, while still providing protection against the British variant and the original strain. The study was published in Cell Host and Microbe and suggests that future variants may require a modified vaccine.
A University of New Mexico study analyzed data from four US cities and found that as vaccination rates increase, it becomes economically advantageous to relax social distancing measures and open businesses. The study suggests a gradual relaxation of restrictions can minimize economic costs while reducing public health risks.
The AstraZeneca vaccine demonstrated high vaccine efficacy of 78.9% against symptomatic COVID-19 disease, including severe disease or hospitalization. The vaccine also showed no increased risk of thrombotic events or cerebral venous sinus thrombosis among vaccinated participants.
A new study found that people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treated with infliximab are less likely to develop antibodies after COVID-19 infection, which may boost susceptibility to reinfection. The study suggests that careful monitoring is needed to ensure patients mount a strong enough antibody response.
Researchers found that nudges can reduce socioeconomic disparities by facilitating selection of welfare-enhancing options, particularly for low-SES consumers. The study generalized its findings across multiple types of nudges and decision contexts.
Scientists have discovered a lesser-known site on the pandemic coronavirus that is recognized by COVID-19 infection-fighting antibodies, which potently prevent the virus from infecting cells. These antibodies were found in blood samples from previously infected patients and were as strong as those targeting the receptor-binding domain.
A modelling study suggests that vaccination alone may not prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection in the UK, even with high vaccine uptake and gradual reopening. Gradual easing of measures and high vaccine protection can minimize future waves of infection.
A study led by McMaster University aims to understand how well vaccination works in residents of long-term care homes and identify factors linked to outbreaks. The research, involving over 2,000 participants, will inform health policy and help keep residents safe and healthy.
Asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission poses a significant challenge in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts warn that relying solely on vaccination is unlikely to be effective in preventing transmission, highlighting the need for robust surveillance measures.
The study found that SARS-CoV-2 underwent little significant genetic change in the first year of the pandemic, suggesting a 'generalist' nature and rapid transmission. This is attributed to human population immunity and lack of containment, allowing the virus to spread quickly.
Researchers found that neutralizing antibodies from COVID-19 vaccines are less effective against new variants, including those from South Africa and Brazil. The study suggests that mutations in the spike protein may contribute to the variants' resistance.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that HPV vaccination for men and women over 26 years has limited health benefits and is not cost-effective. The study used two mathematical models to simulate HPV infection and cervical cancer, as well as six non-cervical HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
A phase 1 study found that a single dose of Ad26.COV2.S vaccine induced both antibody and cellular immune responses. The vaccine is currently being tested in two phase 3 clinical trials to determine its efficacy against COVID-19.
A new study identifies specific job categories that put workers at risk due to close contact with others. Black workers are especially overrepresented in indoor jobs, while Hispanic workers are overrepresented in outdoor high-proximity jobs.
A Mayo Clinic study found that vaccinated patients without symptoms had an 80% lower adjusted risk of testing positive for COVID-19 after their last dose. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna messenger RNA vaccines showed efficacy in limiting the spread of COVID-19 among asymptomatic individuals.
Researchers at Mount Sinai found that a single shot of COVID-19 vaccine can provide immunity to individuals who have previously been infected by the virus. This could help stretch limited vaccine supplies and spare individuals from unnecessary side effects of a second dose.
Early commercial batches of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine had lower than expected levels of intact mRNA molecules, a finding that raised concerns about the manufacturing process and its impact on vaccine potency. Regulators like the EMA and FDA are unsure of the implications for safety and efficacy.
A new study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology highlights how new technologies can exacerbate existing social health inequalities. Research shows that people with lower education and income have poorer health outcomes, and that wealthier individuals may buy their way to access to life-saving vaccines.
A Princeton University and McGill University study found that delaying second COVID-19 vaccine doses reduces case numbers in the short term. However, longer-term case burden and potential viral escape from immunity may depend on the strength and duration of immune responses generated by natural infections or one to two vaccine doses.
A study using real-world data from employees at Mass General Brigham found that the incidence of anaphylaxis was higher than CDC estimates, but still extremely low. The majority of cases recovered without serious complications.
A new modeling study examines the impact of one versus two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine on infections and immune escape. The study finds that while one-dose strategies may reduce short-term infections, weak immunity could lead to long-term virus replication and mutation.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine shows a significant increase in COVID-19 vaccination enthusiasm among older adults with high risk of severe illness. By late January, 71% of people aged 50-70 were ready to get vaccinated, up from 58%, while those in fair or poor health saw an 11-point jump in likelihood.
A recent study predicts that COVID-19 variants from the UK and South Africa may reduce vaccine effectiveness and increase the likelihood of reinfections. The study found that antibodies from Moderna and Pfizer vaccines were less effective against these variants, causing a reduction in protective efficacy.
A survey of over 8,000 nursing home and assisted living staff in Indiana found that 45% would take a vaccine as soon as it was available, while an additional 24% said they would take it at some point in the future. Concerns about side effects, health risks, and effectiveness were common reasons for not wanting to receive the vaccine.
The article proposes reserving Johnson & Johnson vaccines for younger, healthier populations and boosting them with mRNA vaccinations for better efficacy. Boosting people with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection also enhances their immune response.
A new study examined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among a large national sample of sexual and gender minority men and transgender women, finding that medical mistrust, social concern, and race were significantly associated with decreased vaccine acceptance. Healthcare provider recommendations and altruistic attitudes were found to be po...
A new study finds that the emerging SARS-CoV-2 variant in the UK is more transmissible than existing variants, leading to predictions of large COVID-19 resurgences if left uncontrolled. The analysis suggests a higher reproduction number and increased disease severity for the variant.
Delayed injection-site reactions can occur in some patients who received the Moderna mRNA-1273 vaccine, researchers say. Most symptoms clear up after a week, and completion of the second dose should not be discouraged.